Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria was apparently once known as the ugly duckling of her family, if you can believe it. Clearly, it did not take long for the Texas native to outgrow that unjust label, as Longoria won her first beauty pageant at the age of 23. Success came rapidly as soon as Eva landed in Los Angeles for a talent competition.

After being discovered by an agent, Eva landed guest roles on major shows like Beverly Hills, 90210 and General Hospital. These roles eventually led to an audition for Desperate Housewives. The producer Marc Cherry asked, "So what did you think of the script?" Eva replied, "Well, I didn't read the script. I only read my part." Marc later recalled, "I knew Eva was Gabrielle [Solis] at that moment, because it was such a Gabrielle thing to say." As we all know… the show turned out to be wildly successful, running for eight seasons and winning numerous awards. Cherry and she would also team up again to produce the series Devious Maids.

During that time the pint-sized actress' fame grew. Not only did Longoria take the No. 1 spot in Maxim's 2006 Hot 100 list, but also a 75-ft. by 110 ft. cover (reportedly visible from outer space) was erected in Nevada. If that wasn't enough, Eva became the first woman to top Maxim's Hot 100 list twice (two years in a row)!

Longoria was briefly married to soap star, Tyler Christopher. Then Longoria dated ‘N Sync member, JC Chasez. Shortly after she went on a date with San Antonio Spurs point guard Tony Parker…and her dad? Yes, the basketball-er asked Mr. Longoria to dinner just so Eva would join. His approach scored major points and he quickly became Mr. Longoria-Parker. Their relationship lasted for seven years before divorcing.

Longoria has since moved on, having been linked to eligible bachelors such as New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez and Penélope Cruz's handsome brother Eduardo, but no matter what the future holds, this little duckling will end up anything but desperate.

Eva Longoria Talks First Thanksgiving With New Husband

The "Telenovela" star reveals why Thanksgiving with hubby Jose Baston and his kids from Mexico will be so special. Listen in.

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